1. Mainframe Computer

Mainframes are designed to
process large volumes of data
at high speed. They are used
by large businesses such as

banks and mail-order

companies as well as by large

organisations such as universities.

Mainframe computers can also multi-task by running more than one program at the same time time. This is known as multi-programming and with more memory has become possible on desktop and laptop computers.

2. Desktop Computer

19 in Kickin Technology Series: Desktop Computers. See them everywhere!

A desktop computer is the most common kind of PC. It is a collection of a
number of different hardware devices. This type of computer is sited
permanently on a desk because its design means it cannot be easily moved.
The common components of a desktop PC are:

A laptop computer is a small, light computer that you can easily carry about
with you. It can be powered by battery or mains power. A laptop computer
has a keyboard, and comes with specialised input devices, for example
trackballs, touch pads or track points. They are needed because laptop
computers are often operated in places where it is impracticable to use a mouse.

For output the laptop has an
LCD or TFT screen and a
set of small speakers.

‘Laptops’ are often as
powerful as desktop
computers and run the same
range and type of software.

People use laptops for working when they are on the move, going to meetings or attending courses.

Many businesses are replacing desktop PCs with special plug-in workstations
designed round laptop computers because of the flexibility they offer.

4. Palmtop Computer or Personal Digital Assistant (PDA)

1 in Kickin Technology Series: Palmtops Now part of Smartphones!

This type of computer is increasing
in popularity, and is often called a
Personal Digital Assistant (PDA).

A palmtop computer is small
enough to fit in your pocket.

It combines a lot of capabilities,
including organiser features (such
as storing contact numbers, names and addresses, etc.), e-mail and
wireless internet access.

Palmtop's have small keyboards and most let you open menus and select icons
by using a special pen or stylus. Most let you enter data by writing with the
stylus. They are powered by batteries and store their data on removable
memory units called flash cards.

You can run a wide range of software on palmtop's, for example simple word processing, database and spreadsheet software as well as useful applications such as electronic diaries. Many modern palmtop's:

are converging with mobile phones to let you access the internet

have wireless communications to let you access your local area network.

What you have to do!

In a new Word document, enter a heading Computer hardware and save the file. - 9this will form your notes for this topic)

Watch each of the movies in turn and;

answer the following questions.

Why do large businesses such as banks use mainframe computers?

Describe the components of the desktop computer you use in school or
at home.

Complete this table comparing a desktop with a laptop.

Desktop

Laptop

Output

Ordinary Monitor

LCD/TFT

Backing Storage

Hard disk, floppy disk, CD/DVD Drive

Power Source

Mains Power

Portable

No

Name three types of software that run on palmtop's.

Why are palmtop's useful?

What you should be able to do!

Describe different types of Computer System..

Give some of the advantages and disadvantages of each type of computer System.